Reading FC have reportedly joined the race to sign Bolton Wanderers striker Victor Adeboyejo, with the Royals understood to be exploring a permanent deal for the 27-year-old.
Mansfield Town have been leading the pursuit, with a permanent deal until the end of the season currently on the table. Reading’s interest adds a new dimension to Adeboyejo’s imminent departure from Bolton, who are expecting the striker to leave during the current transfer window.
Earlier reports from The Bolton News indicated multiple League One clubs are circling the player, with his contract expiring at the end of the season.
Mansfield see Adeboyejo as a player who could strengthen their attacking options for the second half of the season. However, Reading’s willingness to consider a permanent transfer could appeal to both Bolton and the player, particularly given his contract situation.
While Reading currently have one of League One’s most in-form strikers, Jack Marriott, it’s understood that manager Leam Richardson is keen to bolster his depth in attack.
Marriott is proving to be an outstanding signing for the Royals since he arrived from Wrexham in the summer. He has netted eight league goals in just 14 games, while the club are keen to improve their squad this month in a bid to make a push for the play-offs.
Adeboyejo joined Bolton in January 2023 for a £500,000 fee, the club’s highest in a decade. He is now in the peak years of his career and seeking regular first-team football.
The striker began his career at Leyton Orient and had spells with Barnsley and Burton Albion, including loan stints at Bristol Rovers and Cambridge United. His standout form at Burton, scoring 11 goals in 26 games during the first half of the 2022–23 season, earned him the move to Bolton.
However, Adeboyejo has struggled to consistently make an impact at the Toughsheet Community Stadium, scoring 17 goals in 99 appearances, a return considered below expectations for a side chasing promotion. A fresh start now appears imminent.
With options in League One, Adeboyejo will be looking for a move that guarantees regular minutes and a chance to rediscover the form that brought him to Bolton. Both Reading and Mansfield remain in contention as the transfer window progresses.
